kevinhendricks's review against another edition
3.0
Historical fantasy for middle grade readers set in Ethiopia. That's enough to get my interest, though the fantasy angle isn't my favorite. The story of a 'ferengi' slave girl who makes friends with the Princess of Sheba is engaging, and then she starts talking to animals while an invading horde lies in wait. Lots of interesting elements are introduced here, though it's the first in a series so many of them don't get played out just yet.
shanhaddock's review
5.0
This book was wonderful. I loved the characters, especially Shioni and Mama Nomuula. The only character I didn’t particularly care for was the villain who seemed a little too over-the-top. It had some of the best similes I’ve ever read, like “Fears like vultures began to encircle her courage.” and “eyes had fairly popped out of their heads, like a snail’s eyes on stalks.” And the illustrations were very nice.
It was not, however, perfect. The pacing was uneven, at times moving along at a nice clip and at others dragging, and that Shioni is mistreated and disliked by some is shown often enough that it got a bit annoying that it kept being told too. So maybe it should be more like 4.5 stars, but since that’s not possible, I’m still giving it five.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
It was not, however, perfect. The pacing was uneven, at times moving along at a nice clip and at others dragging, and that Shioni is mistreated and disliked by some is shown often enough that it got a bit annoying that it kept being told too. So maybe it should be more like 4.5 stars, but since that’s not possible, I’m still giving it five.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
hlburke's review
5.0
Thrilling and Exotic
I really appreciated having a fantasy set in an authentic and different world. The book has s young, capable heroine and begs you to keep reading. Some violence and peril, while handled tactfully, probably make this a 12+ read, also because of some hard to stomach bullying scenes that while compelling might be difficult for younger, sensitive readers.
I really appreciated having a fantasy set in an authentic and different world. The book has s young, capable heroine and begs you to keep reading. Some violence and peril, while handled tactfully, probably make this a 12+ read, also because of some hard to stomach bullying scenes that while compelling might be difficult for younger, sensitive readers.
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